Latvia Begins Construction of Largest Military Training Ground in the Baltics

The construction of the largest military training ground in the Baltic States has begun in the Sēlija district of Aizkraukle municipality in Latvia.

The LSM.lv reported on this.

On this occasion, on Friday, November 15, 2024, a memorial capsule was laid on the territory of the landfill.

According to Latvian Defense Minister, Andris Sprūds, all preparatory work has been completed, and construction will now begin.

Construction of a training ground

The Ministry of Defense has begun preparatory work for the construction of the Sēlija International Military Base in 2022.

Construction of the landfill is divided into three phases, the first of which should be completed by the end of next year. The construction is expected to be fully completed by 2030.

The first phase of construction will include a maneuvering area, an ammunition depot and firing ranges. It will also include temporary housing for soldiers at the training ground. According to the plan, the training ground will be available for military exercises starting in 2026.

A plot of 25,596 hectares will be used for the construction of the military training ground. Of these, 24,595 hectares belong to the state and municipalities, and 1,001 hectares to private individuals.

The Minister of Defense noted that it is planned to deploy at least 1,000 soldiers at the Sēlija training ground. In general, it is envisaged that a brigade-sized unit will be able to train at the training ground at the same time.

“We are setting up firing lines for direct fire, where calibers from small to large will be used. Of course, large units will be able to train here, not only up to a battalion, but also up to a brigade. I am absolutely sure that in the future, say, in 7-8 years, this will be one of the most modern training grounds, training places where not only units from the Baltic states will train, but also units from the West will come here,” explains the Commander of the Latvian Land Forces Leonīds Kalniņš.

Work is currently underway to define the infrastructure construction plan and technical requirements for the second phase of the landfill development. The main facilities planned for the second phase of the range development will include a maneuvering corridor, depots, barracks, canteen, medical center and other support infrastructure.

The Baltic states are investing heavily in training their military amid threats from Russia and Belarus. For example, in September, it was reported that Estonia plans to spend €500 million on the development of infrastructure for military exercises in 2025-2028.